Opening the event, host of 2025 NSA Welsh Sheep, Huw Evans Bevan, the owner of the Tregoyd Estate, part of which is rented to Penny Chantler and her children, Will and Sam Sawday who together run High Country Romneys, told visitors he was fortunate to find himself hosting the event in conjunction with High Country Romneys.
Mr Evans Bevan said: "We are all lucky to be experiencing the stunning beauty of rural Wales, which is sculpted, nurtured and preserved by an enduring resilience, innovation and excellence that are Welsh farming."
He offered thanks and recognition to Ms Chantler, the Sawday brothers and nodded to their late stepfather, Richard.
He described the family as dedicated farmers who have brought vision, energy and fresh thinking to the heart of Tregoyd and together have developed an intellectual approach to sheep farming that is sustainable, envrionmentally friendly respectful and still practical," said Mr Evans Bevan.
He credited their work on their High Country Romney flock, breeding resilience, maternal ability and efficiency from grass which suit the conditions of Wales, while respecting their choice for a breed often considered unorthodox in the area.
Mr Evans Bevan gave a nod to the rain which had dampened the dust prior to the event which put farmers in a positive mindset at a much needed social occasion during recent industry uncertainty.
But as a landowner, he was proud to support tenants who are forward thinking.
"This approach is a progressive trend in the industry, that values genetics and data, along with a regenerative grazing system as well as the essential true grit that farming requires," he added.
Educating the next generation of consumers
In a new addition to this year's event, school children were part of the attendees and filled the atmosphere with fun and enthusiasm.
Five primary schools from the surrounding area brought 120 children who were given a guided tour of the event by volunteers from a farming background and took part in a school's competition.
A representative of the Peterchurch Primary School faculty said: "The students absolutely loved today's event. Coming from a rural area, the majority of them come from rural backgrounds but do not know the details of sheep farming systems and the variety of breeds, so this has been a truly valuable insight for both them and many school staff."
The opportunity also included a unique celebration of Welsh lamb where some of the primary schoolchildren designed and prepared their own meals, in a hands-on experience which was warmly welcomed by the local authority.
The initiative was a collaborative effort between Powys County Council, NSA Welsh Sheep, and Castell Howell Foods.
Councillor Jake Berriman, Powys County Council's Cabinet Member for a Connected Powys, praised the initiative. He said: "This venture is a fantastic example of how we can connect our young people with Powys's rich agricultural heritage while promoting healthy, local food.
"By involving schoolchildren in the preparation and enjoyment of Welsh lamb, we are not only supporting our local farmers and food producers, but fostering a deeper understanding of where our food comes from. It is an engaging and memorable way to bring learning to life and strengthen the bonds between schools, communities, and our rural economy."
As part of the wider promotion, four local schools involved in the cooking sessions saw Welsh lamb feature on their lunch menus ahead of the event. Students enjoyed a roast, boned, and rolled legs of Welsh lamb, highlighting the quality and versatility of local produce.
Helen Roberts, organiser of NSA Welsh Sheep, added: "This initiative was a valuable addition to this year's event, engaging the next generation. It is vital for our industry to showcase the nutritious, healthy food we produce and its role in a well-balanced diet."
First time competitor to represent Wales
Hot competition was seen across a bumper entry of young shepherds competing in the Welsh region of the Next Generation Young Shepherd of the Year competition.
Out of the 20 competitors, it was 17-year-old Evan Turner who took the top spot. A keen pedigree sheep enthusiast, he lives with his family in Newtown where they run pedigree flocks of Suffolk, Texel and Charollais sheep. He entered the competition alongside a few students from Llysfasi College, where he is studying Level Three Agriculture.
Evan said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed all parts of the event and mixing with the competitors. Next year I am keen to represent Wales at the national finals and am looking to improve on my shearing techniques to give myself the best chance."
Results
Best Trade Stand Competition
Sheep Breed Society
1. Texel; 2. Suffolk; 3. Lleyn and Badger Face Welsh Mountain
Indoor Trade Stands
1. British Wool; 2. NHS; 3. Farming Connect
Outdoor Trade Stands
1. Wynnstay; 2. S. J. Conveyors; 3. J. and C. Griffiths
Wool On The Hoof
1. Texel; 2. Rough Fell; 3. North Country Cheviots.
Next Generation Young Shepherd of the Year Competition
1. Evan Turner; 2. Mared Edwards; 3.Elin Kitty Hughes; 4. Charlotte Griffiths; 5. Morgan Edwards Jones; 6.Rhys Pinder.
Highest placed under 21.
1. Evan Turner
Schools Competition
1. Llyswen
